The story…

Greece was not a kingdom of one terrain and weather. Greece was a land of recent volcanic activity, a hot and dry terrain equal in elevation to the sea. Greece was also the rich soils of the central valleys, home to farms and vineyards. And, Greece was the mountain ranges scattered throughout the realm, suitable for sheep and goat herding.

The Royals had traveled far from Corinth to the northern most point of the Pindus Mountain Range. It was less than a fortnight to Solstice. The mountains were white with a deep blanket of snow. Crossing was possible by a few well-traveled roads, where the snow was packed firmly, and thus capable of supporting the weight of horse and rider.

The mountains of Greece could be a lonely place, dangerous to the wayfarer unaccustomed to the merciless elements, the cold, brittle winds and precipitation. The mountains of Greece could also be magnificent in their towering beauty. Remarkable for their jutting rock formations, the mountains captured the eye with their variant tones of color and texture, inspiring awe. The felt exhilaration of being in the midst of the foreboding mountain shadows could not be separated from the terrain's intrinsic danger. The shear physical exertion required to reach a mountain's pinnacle taught a priceless lesson that few had both the will and the stamina to learn. Those mortals who walked the treacherous paths, facing their fear of death, were rewarded by a spiritual renewal that could not be explained to one who never knew what it was to live on the edge of civilization, away from shelter, food and warmth guaranteed. Such knowledge was reserved for those rare souls who welcomed each day as a challenge to not only survive, but also to thrive.

Were Gabrielle of Poteidaia alone, she would have felt a far greater vulnerability as she journeyed through the isolated mountain valley. She had the knowledge and skills; she was sufficiently self-reliant to cross the landscape purposely, exercising caution and patience in equal measure to guarantee a safe passage. However, Gabrielle was not alone. Given her companion, the finest outdoorswoman she knew, she felt her well being vouchsafed. Gabrielle's companion, the woman who earned the honorific of her Lord, demonstrated time and time again an insight to the natural world that enabled her to forecast weather, find or create shelter and forage for, trap, hook or otherwise kill sufficient food to sustain them both.

In their years together Gabrielle had never shared such a dauntingly cold environment with her Lord. Her Lord had been more than equal to the demands of their travels. In truth her Lord took obvious pleasure in their endeavor.

"Cold! Cold! Cold!" Gabrielle jumped up and down on her toes in a failed attempt to generate some heat. There was no relief to her shivering caused by the persistent wind that pierced her finest handcrafted furs and leathers. She felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned around and immediately found herself in her Lord's embrace.

"Maybe I can help," said Xena.

The warrior's warm breath tickled Gabrielle's ear. "Oh, this is good." Gabrielle buried herself against Xena's fur coat. "This is Elysia."

"It will be for me as well if you consent to be my bard tonight."

"Find us a warm cave and I'll tell you all the stories I know."

"There won't be a cave for us tonight."

Gabrielle looked up to her partner. "I thought you said there were plenty of caves in this area?"

"There are. There is also an inn two candlemarks further down the trail. I know the proprietor. He'll give us a comfortable bed and excellent food."

"Do Stephen and my Guard know about the inn?"

"They are probably two… three days behind our trail."

"Xena, it's not like you to enter a village unescorted."

Xena spoke seductively. "Other than Roco, the innkeeper, and his son, no one will know us. Gabrielle, a hot bath, a feather mattress, a good stew with fresh bread."

Gabrielle noted a rare mischievous glimmer in Xena's eyes. "Are we being expected?"

Found out, Xena chuckled. "I may have sent a messenger before we left Oescus." She noted the steam rising from the snout of a kettle resting on a nearby fire, "Water is boiling."

"I'm not moving," declared Gabrielle amicably.

"I thought you wanted some tea?"

"I'm fine right where I am."

"What if I want tea?"

"You have many skills. You'll think of something."

Xena's bright eyes reflected her enchantment. Her protest carried a familiar blend of mirth and exasperation. "Gabrielle…"

"My Lord." Gabrielle met and held Xena's mesmerizing gaze. She no longer felt the cold. Her senses were bound to her partner and the warmth that traveled through their intimate connection.

"Very well." Xena shook her head good-naturedly and hugged Gabrielle tighter. "We shall stay here until we freeze in place and the birds take us for statutes and settle on our shoulders and heads, singing their songs to our deaf ears." Xena looked up to the nearby tall pine trees. "Though if I was a bird I think I'd choose the protection of a tree to set my nest."

"They're fools. There is no safer place than to be held in your arms."

"But I would be holding you, not them. As much as I wish them well, keeping you safe will always be my first priority."

"Then I guess I should released you."

"Oh no, you set a challenge and I never back down from a challenge."

"What!" cried Gabrielle as Xena raised her up, cradling the younger woman in her arms. "Xena!"

Xena stepped closer to the fire. She knelt on one knee, still holding Gabrielle close. Using a stick, she raised the kettle off the fire onto a stone. Two cups readied with herbs were stationed on the ground. With gloved hand, she poured hot water into both cups. "Now, what to do as we wait for the tea to steep?"

Gabrielle leaned forward and whispered into her partner's ear. "I love you." She then separated just enough to passionately kiss the warrior.

* * *

Having finished their tea, the Royals stowed their possession in their respective saddlebags. As Xena checked Argo's tack, a cold wet missile expertly aimed at the back of her exposed neck hit her. She turned sharply to see Gabrielle packing a second snowball. Xena paused and considered her options. She chose not to mimic Gabrielle's chosen weaponry. Instead, she charged the bard.

Seeing Xena's surge toward her Gabrielle backed up. Xena was upon her as Gabrielle's second footstep breached the snow. The warrior took her partner by the waist and drove her down. Heedless of the cold wet snow Gabrielle laughed. She thought nothing of her precarious position.

Xena growled. "You think snow down my neck is funny?"

Gabrielle nodded as she continued her laughter, adoring Xena's childlike expression.

"I am a dangerous warrior!"

Gabrielle smiled. "Not to me."

"No?"

"No." Xena took a handful of snow. Gabrielle reached out, grasping Xena's wrist. She pleaded with a bright voice. "No! Please..." Their gazes met and held. A surge of emotion burst through their inexplicable yet true bond. Captivated, Xena turned her palm allowing the snow to fall to the ground. After a moment pause she began to pull away. Gabrielle repeated in a hush, "No." The meaning far different, an intimate plea that Xena honored by arresting her motion.

Their connection mastered Xena. She took hold of Gabrielle and rolled their bodies so that she lay on the snow and the bard rested upon her. She closed her eyes as she felt Gabrielle touch her cheek against her own. Xena allowed herself to be engulfed by the bard's brilliant essence.

They lay together oblivious of their surroundings and of the passing time. They traveled to a dimension of existence beyond their mortal senses, seeking out and caressing each other's souls. Xena felt Gabrielle release her embrace. She opened her eyes to the bard. Gabrielle offered her a shy smile, one reminiscent of how the bard, still a servant in her household in the early days of their clandestine relationship, would welcome Xena in the mornings after they had shared the previous night in tender lovemaking. Xena mirrored the smile in spite of the pain that accompanied the calming of their connection. "Hello."

With her gloved hand, Gabrielle cupped Xena's cheek. "Thank you."

Though she too felt an overwhelming gratitude, Xena felt that to attempt to express her feelings in spoken words would impoverish the moment. She trusted silence. She trusted Gabrielle to understand her silence.

After a moment Gabrielle looked up. "It's getting late. We better get going if we are going to reach the inn by nightfall."

"Hard to do with you pinning me to the ground, my bard."

"Oh, please!" scoffed Gabrielle playfully. She got to her feet and offered Xena her hand, which the warrior immediately accepted.

Once back on sure footing, the warrior led her partner back to their horses.

* * *

The Pindus Mountains were home to scattered villages that prospered during the warmer moons, as herders and subsistence farmers labored to build up the necessary stores to keep themselves fed through the winter moons.

The mountain people enjoyed the protection of the realm and equally appreciated being left to live their lives with minimal intervention from Corinth. The residents of the autonomously govern district had a proud nature and received any political intrusion as a threat to their hard earned freedom.

Only a decade before, the men that form the core of the community were rebels against Rome. They had leveraged the difficult terrain, building a stronghold impervious to a marching army. Those very same rebels found the district well suited to their gentler ambitions of finding someone to love and to raise a family. Thus, the mountain became the place where they staked their future.

Outsiders were common as detours from a main trade route brought merchants to rest and imbibe in potent mead and ale, and a more limited supply of wine cut by the clear mountain spring waters. Strangers were thus cautiously welcomed; more so for the coin they carried in their pockets than any altruistic motives the residents might harbor. All this the Conqueror understood as she guided Gabrielle to the village of Civello.

* * *

The Royals rode into the village. Though dressed modestly, their steeds were too distinctive not to be noticed. Xena kept her sword and chakram under the cover of her cloak. Only their staves and bows were visible.

The village was situated on the cusp of the mountain range, protected from the harshest weather. Gabrielle admired the well-kept homes, tradesmen shops, inn and stables. A boy no more than twelve winters old stood outside the Ram's Head Inn entrance. He stepped forward, his gaze fixed upon her and Xena. The boy turned and ran into the inn. Within moments a man exited with the boy at his side. He was a large man, tall and broad shouldered, much like Samuel, though roughly a decade older. He wrapped his arm easily over the boy's shoulder. A missing upper tooth did not lessen his bright smile. The man walked down the inn steps to meet them.

"Right on time. I shouldn't be surprised," said the man to Xena.

Xena dismounted and offered the man her arm in greeting. "Roco, how are you?"

"Never better. You remember my boy, Stalan?"

Xena put her hands on her hips and said brightly, "You've grown two hands since I last saw you. How are you Stalan?"

"Very good, your Majesty."

"Oh no, Stalan, not on this trip. I'm just a traveler passing through, keeping company with the best of friends." Xena walked to Spirit's side and raised her hands up to Gabrielle. The Queen dismounted easily into Xena's embrace. For a moment their connection surged. Xena paused; sure her partner had shared the sensation. Gathering her wits, the warrior stepped aside. "Roco, Stalan, you haven't met the finest bard in Greece."

Roco offered Gabrielle his arm. "I've waited a long time for this day. It's an honor to meet the woman who stole my warrior friend's heart."

Gabrielle smiled as she grasped Roco's arm. "I'm told your hospitality is unsurpassed. I see that as always my Lord's words are true." She shifted her gaze to Stalan. "You have a handsome son."

"Favors his mother. She was as beautiful as you."

Gabrielle offered her hand to the boy. Stalan greeted Gabrielle shyly asking, "What should I call you?"

"When we are alone you may call me Gabrielle." She looked to Xena. "Until my Guard arrives we prefer our names not be known."

"Father told me." Stalan glanced over to his father.

Roco proudly patted his son on the back. "Xena, I have our best room ready for you."

"Thank you, Roco. We'll stable our horses and then come in."

Stalan eagerly offered, "I'll do it."

"It's the lad's chore." His father confirmed.

"Well, it wouldn't be right to take your chores from you, now would it?" said Xena.

The boy smiled. He reached out his hand. Xena offered Argo's reins. Spirit stepped back in protest as Gabrielle tried to do the same.

"Hey boy." Gabrielle's soft voice soothed the unusually resistant stallion. She stroked his cheek. "It's all right. I won't be far away."

Spirit bobbed his head unhappily. Gabrielle tried again. "Come now. Stalan will take good care of you."

Stalan spoke up. "I'm good at brushing."

"You see." Gabrielle continued to use her voice and hand to soothe Spirit. The stallion calmed sufficiently enough to give his mistress the confidence to hand his reins to Stalan. This time Spirit accepted the transfer docilely. Gabrielle rewarded him with a pat on his neck. "Good boy. I'll be by in the morning." She quickly lifted her saddlebags from Spirits back as Xena took possession of her own from Argo's tack.

Roco guided his guests inside the inn. "Come this way."

Gabrielle entered followed by Xena. She said, "It's not like Spirit to be so stubborn."

"This is a new place to him and he needs to be reassured you'll return to him. I know how he feels."

Understanding the cause and depth of need reflected in Xena's casual statement Gabrielle wrapped her arm around her Lord. Gabrielle found the inn large and well kept. The scents of fresh bread and venison roast wafted through the space. Gabrielle senses reassured her that their stay would be a pleasant one.

Roco led them up the stairs to the far end of the corridor. "This is my best and quietest room." He opened the door.

Gabrielle stepped inside followed by Xena and the innkeeper. It was indeed an excellent room comprised of a large bed centered against the far wall, a round table with two chairs near the entrance, a desk and chair placed against the outer wall under a shuttered window, and a large stone fireplace with a wide hearth and a scattering of furs and pillows before it.

"That door," Roco pointed to a door to the right of the hearth, "leads to the common bath. Don't be shy to latch the outer door to keep your privacy when you bathe. The other guests have been told that whoever stays in this room has first rights. There be plenty of hot water over the coals."

"This is wonderful," said Gabrielle.

"Good to hear. I'll leave you two to get comfortable. Let me know if you want your dinner in your room. I'll have a girl bring it up to you."

Xena placed her saddlebags over a table chair. "Thank you, Roco. I'll let you know what we decide."

"We serve late. An inn in these here parts gets travelers at all times of the night." Roco closed the door behind him.

Gabrielle placed her saddlebags beside the bed. She faced Xena. "My Lord."

Xena smiled. "You like it here?"

"Very much."

Once again Gabrielle felt their connection stir. She waited to see if Xena would betray feeling the same sensation.

Xena approached Gabrielle, pausing before her. She glanced at the healthy fire. "We shouldn't have to worry about the cold tonight."

Gabrielle leaned up and kissed her partner lightly on the lips. Stepping back she turned her gaze to the bed. "Or hard ground."

"Not tonight."

Gabrielle took Xena's hand. "Or this afternoon?"

Xena waited for no further invitation. She lifted Gabrielle into her arms and laid her down gently on the bed. Lying beside Gabrielle Xena swept a wisp of her partner's hair from her brow. The two women stilled in silent appreciation of each other and the safety of their shared company. A delicious lovemaking ensued.

* * *

Sitting in front of the fireplace, Xena failed in her attempt to silence her thoughts. Her quiet moments with Gabrielle had never been sweeter. Their private exchanges were both similar to yet different from those they shared prior to Ithome. Having the indelible knowledge of how profoundly she mourned the loss of her partner, Xena lived with a heightened awareness of her need for the bard. She had no doubt that she had been changed by the events surrounding Gabrielle's residence in Ithome. To what extent she was still in the process of discovering.

Xena was left humbled by the fact that she had no power to prevent the loss of Gabrielle, and that, in spite of her actions to secure her partner's return, ultimately, all she could do was wait, feeling her helplessness as she had never previously known. Events had proven that for all her intelligence, physical strength and political power she could not safeguard Gabrielle from the influence of the Gods.

And there was no denying that the Gods were a threat. Upon confirming Gabrielle's standing as Aphrodite's Chosen, Xena expected her partner to benefit from her divine benefactress. In retrospect, Xena judged herself naïve. No Chosen of the Gods was free from the machinations of the Olympians. If anything, they were more apt to become pawns, playthings in the immortals' games.

Xena had never questioned Gabrielle's blatant defiance of Ares though she knew the danger of it. She admittedly took pride in her partner's combative nature, her commitment to protect her Lord at all costs. Gabrielle, by Zeus' decree, was now freed from Ares' intrigues. Whether another God or mortal might go against Gabrielle in retaliation for an act perpetrated by Aphrodite was too great of an unknown to dwell upon. Her fear for Gabrielle, if jointly harbored, was never voiced by the bard.


Finishing an entry in her journal, Gabrielle closed the codex and set her quill to the side. She saw in Xena, a quiet, solitary spirit. She left the desk and knelt behind her partner, wrapping her arms around the warrior as she rested her chin on Xena's shoulder. Xena's thick wool tunic felt soft against Gabrielle's skin. She hesitated to broach the subject that had dominated her thoughts.

Their unexpected union had overwhelmed Gabrielle. The lingering waves of sensation that marked their connection were unlike any she had felt before. Gabrielle knew in her soul that she was vulnerable whenever in Xena's presence. She feared that by speaking honestly of Xena's power over her, Xena would question Gabrielle's willingness to share her most intimate self. Stronger than Gabrielle's fear was her need to know whether Xena shared her experience.

"Xena?"

"Yes?"

"About this afternoon… what happened between us. It took me by surprise."

"Took you by surprise?" Having heard hesitation in Gabrielle's voice, Xena replied cautiously.

"We haven't shared many of those moments, but when we have I've always felt my feelings slowly build up inside me and I've always felt…"

"What?" Receiving no answer, Xena turned her body around. "Felt what, Gabrielle?"

With Xena's motion, Gabrielle released her embrace. She sat back on her heals and looked down, knowing there was no easy way to say the truth. "I always felt I had control… that I chose sharing myself with you."

After a moment of heavy silence between them, Xena asked, "And you didn't feel you had a choice this time?"

Gabrielle kept her gaze focused on her hands, which rested upon her lap. "Our connection came so quickly… it was so strong."

"Like a powerful wave that would not be denied?" said Xena in a low whisper.

Gabrielle nodded.

Xena reached out to her partner. "Gabrielle." She waited for the bard to heed her call and raise her eyes. What she saw was a rare shyness. In response, she spoke tenderly. "I felt the same way. It was as if I was drowning. I was frightened even though the sensations were nothing less than bliss."

"Xena, what's happening to us?"

"I don't know." Xena took her partner's hand. "Gabrielle, I believe we can stop if we choose."

"No!" Gabrielle was vehement in her protest. "No, Xena! I don't want that. Don't ask me to…"

"I'm not." Xena held Gabrielle's gaze with unflinching certainty. "I won't ever ask you for that. I don't ever want to go back to Ithome."

Upon mention of Ithome Gabrielle's expression shifted to one of pained recognition.

"Gabrielle, maybe it was me. This afternoon I looked into your eyes and saw… I saw how much you're mine, not because I will it but because you give yourself freely." For a moment Xena's gazed shifted unseeingly toward the shuttered window. "This trip… I was looking forward to having you with me, knowing that we would have time to ourselves out here away from everything and everyone that defines us as Sovereign and Queen. I have not been disappointed." She returned her attention to Gabrielle. "On the contrary."

"This time with you has been wonderful," echoed Gabrielle.

"Love, you own my heart and rule my soul. And, I cannot think of a greater joy than the joy I feel when I surrender to you. Our union has always felt… I believed you wanted me as much as I wanted you. If I alone am the cause." Troubled, Xena fell silent. She searched her heart, her motives and came to a conclusion. "I would never knowingly force you… I don't want you to be frightened…"

"It's not like that for me." Gabrielle assured, "I've never been frightened."

Xena's voice trembled as she said, "I need you."

"I think you weren't alone in your need."

Xena was visibly heartened. "You did want me then?"

"Yes!" Gabrielle exclaimed. She paused for a moment, gathering her thoughts. "I've come to understand myself… my life… better. I have loved you from my first days in Corinth. Though you were not my friend, neither were you just my Sovereign. Falling in love with you was as frightening as it was wonderful." Gabrielle took hold of Xena's hand. "Xena, I wasn't frightened of you. It didn't take long for me to understand that all the hurt I had felt in the past would not begin to approach the pain I would feel if I lost you. Time proved me right. I did lose you and I survived, but barely so. Ithome taught me a priceless lesson. No matter the circumstances of my life, I am bound to you. I want to be bound to you."

"As I am bound to you." Xena reassuringly squeezed Gabrielle's hand.

Gabrielle smiled. "This has been a fine getaway. I have never felt more at peace. I've never trusted the world more. Maybe now the Fates will be merciful to both of us." Gabrielle weighed her next statement. She did not want to hurt Xena. "I feel… I feel it is safe to love you without reservation. I thought that is how I have loved you all along. But, now I'm not so sure. Maybe it is only now that I have completely given myself to you. Xena, no matter how overwhelming the feelings we share may become, there can be no other way for me."

"Are you sure? I'm so dark. The light I have to offer is pitiful in comparison to your own."

Gabrielle raised a hand to Xena's cheek. "Forgive me, my Lord, if I disagree."

Xena felt the consuming power of their connection. She leaned into Gabrielle's touch and closed her eyes. Within a moment she felt Gabrielle's embrace.

* * *

The following morning Xena entered the inn kitchen. She found the proprietor butchering a slab of bacon. "Good morning, Roco."

"Aye, Xena. Sleep well, I hope."

"I did."

"Will you have breakfast downstairs or up in your room?"

"Gabrielle will be down in a moment."

"Fine."

"Roca, a favor?"

"What can I do for you?"

"Do you have a couple of pairs of snow shoes I can borrow?"

"Sure do. You and Gabrielle going out?"

"The sky is clear. I say our good weather will hold another day."

Roco looked out the window. "Aye it does look it. Where ye plan to trek?"

"I thought the south trail, by the ridge that overlooks the valley."

"It's a pretty place, but it can be dangerous. Don't go too close to the edge. Hard to tell where the overhang ends. You be floating on nothing more than a shelf of snow."

"I won't take any chances."

"Got a reason to live a long life, don't ya?"

Xena smiled. "I do."

"I feel the same way every time I see my boy. Adventure can't come close to giving my life the same meaning."

"Reason to stay away from the sword?"

"Aye. The men in the village and I are of one of the same mind. We will fight a good fight to save our lives and those of our families and friends. Lucky for us we found a place to settle where the taste of blood never leaves our memories not because we miss it, but because we never want to know it again."

"Count yourself a lucky man, Roco."

"I do, Xena. I wish you could have the same peace."

"If only all the world were as wise as the men of Civello," mused Xena. Her thoughts drifted to a rarely indulged vision of a world she had never been able to create for herself and for Greece. Seeing Roco's quiet regard she shook her head and snapped the vision from her mind. "Don't worry about me, Roco. I have Gabrielle and I find my peace in her."

"She must have a gentle soul."

"The gentlest I've known."

"You look happy."

"Hard not to be in a place like this. That's why I wanted to bring Gabrielle here. Even in our retreat in Megara her Guard always surrounds us. I knew I could come here without our soldiers and be safe. This is the first time in our lives together that we have been among people and not been surrounded by swords."

"You're traveling without yours?" asked Roco incredulously.

"I'm trying to keep my sword and chakrum out of sight."

"All right then. For a moment there I feared you lost your common sense."

"What does that say about the world, Roco?"

"It's never going to be Elysia, Xena. And we'd be fools to think otherwise."

"Maybe, but that doesn't mean we can't carve out a small space in the world and do our damnedest to create our own Elysia."

"By the Gods! The Conqueror is a romantic!"

Xena laughed lightly. "Tell my secret and I'll have your head."

Gabrielle entered the kitchen. "What secret?" she asked, having obviously overhead part of their conversation.

Xena embraced Gabrielle. "Nothing you don't already know, my love." She kissed her partner.

Upon separation, Gabrielle wore a brilliant smile reflecting her delight over Xena's open show of affection. She placed her hand over Xena's heart. She turned her gaze to the innkeeper. "Good morning, Roco."

"Morning to you. So, I hear you're going to get some fresh air."

Gabrielle looked up to Xena. "How long will we be gone?"

"We should be back in time for a late mid-day meal."


* * *

Xena and Gabrielle walked a path. Glistening blue-white ice covered a small pond to Gabrielle's right. She paused and bent down, placing her hand on the ice. Looking through the ice Gabrielle said, "I wonder how it feels… to have a different world so close and yet impossible to touch."

Xena crouched beside her looking first to the pond and then to her partner. "Is there such a world in your life?"

Gabrielle placed her gloved hand on Xena's cheek. "This time alone with you… We've never had this before… not being Sovereign and Queen to the people. I could be the village healer and you… you could work with horses and your leather smithing. No diplomats, no trade agreements... no wars. We could take care of each other, not Greece."

Xena took Gabrielle's hand and folded it into her own. "Is that what you want?"

Gabrielle searched Xena's eyes seeing an equal yearning for a simple life. She was heartbroken. "We can't. Greece would fracture. Who we are will follow us wherever we go."

Xena refused to so easily dismiss the possibility. "Gabrielle there is a vast world beyond Greece. Two people can disappear in it and never be known for their past. It is possible."

"Do you think we can escape our destinies?"

"Who is to say what that destiny is? Not even the Gods know what the Fates' have in store for us."

"The Fates know."

"I wonder how much of the future they really do see."

"More than the Oracle in Delphi."

"That's not hard to believe," said the skeptical warrior.

"Would you want to know the future? Where our lives will take us?"

"No, I am done with trying to control chaos. I was told I could do best for Greece if I chose the path I now walk. It was the destiny I chose because I owed a debt that needed to be repaid. I did the best I could. I walked through each day with an empty heart believing my destiny was set. And then I met you. I no longer presume to know tomorrow."

Gabrielle stood up. She looked out to the horizon. "How do I know where I belong?" Gabrielle turned to Xena as the warrior stood up. "Will I continue to be a part of your destiny?"

"By the Gods I lost you. By your will you came back to me. Your place is whatever you make it. I can only tell you that I will no longer deny that you are the source of my very being."

"I don't want to lose you."

"Why do you think you will?"

"How many times have we come close? Our lives…"

"Ours Gabrielle." Xena stepped closer, tolerating no distance between them. "We choose. If you want to leave Corinth, we will. It won't change our path. It will be our path." Xena noted the sadness that had overtaken Gabrielle. "What love?"

Gabrielle took Xena's hand, understanding that her partner's hand would forever hold a sword no matter where they called home. There was no escaping violence if violence was part of their world. She believed the violence that touched them was not contingent on their identities as rulers. It was contingent on Xena's identity as Ares' Chosen. "Let's walk."

"Gabrielle, please do not hide yourself from me."

Gabrielle looked out once again toward the horizon. "We have a marvelous life. Sometimes I wonder why I've been given you. I am no more worthy than any other man or woman that walks the earth. It is hard to accept the blessing. Being grateful doesn't seem enough."

Xena kept her gaze upon Gabrielle. "Gratitude is more than many feel. So many… those that have wealth or power or beauty or an artist's talent come to feel entitled and make a point of telling others that there is a separation between them and those less fortunate. You have all those things, paid a high price for them and have remained humble. It is one reason why I love you."

Gabrielle raised their held hands and kissed Xena's. "Walk with me, my Lord. Our future awaits us."

* * *

The inn was bustling with patrons. The wait staff of three worked hard to keep pace with their orders. Gabrielle watched what was to her the extraordinary simplicity of activity with great pleasure. The evening reminded her of Niko's. She always enjoyed her time with Xena at the Corinth tavern. Although, however informal the atmosphere, she was still the Queen. All present were aware of Gabrielle's plain clothes Guard, as well as, the Conqueror's nearby presence.

On this night her identity as Queen as well as a bard was unknown. She wished she could tell a few stories. She wondered if she stood before an audience only as an iterant bard if the reception would be any different.

Xena kept a close eye on her thoughtful partner. She leaned over and spoke into Gabrielle's ear. "Everything all right?"

Gabrielle turned to her. "I was just thinking."

"About?"

"If Roco would mind having a bard tell some stories."

"He asked me if you would."

"Did he?" asked Gabrielle, pleased.

"He did."

"What did you tell him?"

"I said that I would ask you after your Guard arrived. I'm not comfortable having the village know who we are."

Gabrielle was unsuccessful in hiding her disappointment.

"Gabrielle, it's only a couple more days."

"I know. It's just… would they think the same of me if they didn't know me as Queen."

"Gabrielle, once you begin your stories, everyone forgets they're hearing their Queen. You become the bard from Poteidaia and that is how they judge you. There is no undeserved politeness."

"I'll never know."

"Is it so important to you?"

"I won't risk our safety to stoke my pride."

Xena saw Roco pass near. She called out to him.

The proprietor stepped up to their table. "What can I do for you?"

"I thought you would like to know how lucky you are."

"Pray tell…"

"My friend here is a bard and she was wondering if you would mind if she told a story or two."

Roco grinned broadly. "Really? Don't know… I don't want folk here to lose their appetites. Are ye any good, lass?"

Xena spoke for her modest partner. "We were in Corinth and she heard tales told by the Queen herself."

A man sitting at a nearby table, that apparently overhead the conversation, rested an arm upon the back of his chair and chimed in. "Roco, man, let the lass tell a tale. Can't think it do any harm."

"If she's no good it's on your head, Mica."

Mica was undeterred. "Lass, did the Queen tell about the battle with Rome. A friend of mind heard her at Niko's in Corinth and said it was the damnedest thing… the Conqueror doing some mighty feats."

Gabrielle looked over to Xena. Xena continued to speak for her. "My friend here tells the story well."

Roco was decided. "Then it's settled. We'll have entertainment tonight."

Xena took and gently squeezed Gabrielle's hand. "They're waiting for you, my bard."

Gabrielle leaned forward, embraced her partner and whispered, "Thank you."

"Go! Go!" Xena half-heartedly protested. "Make your sentimental scene up front, not here."

Wearing a wide grin, Gabrielle released the warrior and stood up.

"Come this way." Roco guided her with his hand.

She took a final glance over to Xena. What she saw was nothing less than unconditional love, with an equal measure of pride.

Having watched the bard follow Roco, Mica spoke to the unassuming warrior. "She seems shy for a bard."

"Sometimes she is."

"She's good, you say. I won't be owing Roco an apology will I?"

"She's good," assured Xena as she raised her cup of mead to her lips and took a healthy swallow. She felt a deep satisfaction in giving Gabrielle what she desired.

Roco shouted over the crowd, seeking their attention. He announced Gabrielle simply as "a bard", then placed a stool down for her and stepped away to listen.

Gabrielle sat upon the stool. She took measure of her audience. Their faces may be new, their names unknown, but their hearts were familiar. She knew these men and women. They were hard working villagers, merchants and other travelers. She would stir their imaginations, bringing forth a spectrum of emotion. By her words they would journey back together to recent history, to a time when the realm was threatened by the forces of Rome.

Gabrielle had told the story only once before. On that previous night, like this night, Xena sat in the back of the room, a constant companion. Unlike that previous night, on this night anonymity was theirs. Gabrielle had asked for this moment. She relished the chance to weave the tale where politics, memory and an intimate love converged. She found and for a moment held Xena's gaze with her own, seeking and feeling their intangible connection, through it conveying her gratitude. With the room fallen silent, Gabrielle took a calming breath and then began to tell the story of the Conqueror and her Queen.


As always, Gabrielle quickly won over her audience. She deftly outlined the Conqueror's military strategy certain that the former fighting men would appreciate Xena's cunning. Reaching the conclusion, she was greeted with overwhelming applause. Seeing Xena subtle nod in approval, the bard felt free to mingle with the patrons as she weaved her way back towards their table. In no time, Gabrielle was detoured to the bar when a village leader offered to buy her a drink, which she gratefully accepted.

Having handed a freshly poured cup of mead to Gabrielle, the older gentleman said, "That was a mighty fine story. Can't think the Queen doing much better."

Gabrielle found the praise sweet and quite funny. "Thank you."

"You're not from these parts are you?"

"No, I'm from the south."

"Easier winters there but too blasted hot in the summer if ye ask me. I take the coolness of these mountains."

A younger man approached. "Callan."

"Gustan," responded Callan invitingly. "Have ye met the bard here?"

"Watch out, Miss. Callan is a charmer."

"Hey now." Callan protested affably. "I know beauty and talent and we got both here in this gal."

Gustan's bright smile froze as his eyes found and held to the medallion Gabrielle wore on a chain around her neck. He scoured the room with his eyes until he fixed upon the tall dark woman warrior sitting in a corner of the inn. He tore his sight from her. Equally confused as he was fearful he looked down to Gabrielle's hands. Finding in her ring a confirmation he would have preferred not be present.

Callan continued to keep up the good-natured conversation he shared with the bard. He placed his hand on her shoulder as he laughed.

"Don't man!" cried Gustan in horror.

Callan looked over to the younger man. "What's wrong, boy?"

Behind the bard Gustan could see the warrior stand and approach. He turned to Gabrielle, panic owning him. "Please, he means no harm."

Callan's frustration was evident. "What in Hades' name are you talking about? I'm being nice." He looked to the bard. "Have I offended you?"

Xena stood directly behind Gabrielle.

Gustan was terrified. He fell to one knee. "Your Majesty, I beg your pardon."

Callan stared down to his young friend. "Your… Majesty? " He turned. By the look on his face one would think he saw his death in Xena. "By the Gods." He stepped back.

Gabrielle knelt down to Gustan. She whispered, "Please, no one kneels to me. I am a simple woman living an extraordinary life."

The young man raised his eyes to those of his compassionate Queen. "We didn't know."

Gabrielle looked up for a moment, first to Callan and then to her partner. "My Lord and I had hoped to spend a few quiet days before my Guard arrived. It seems we were wrong to think we wouldn't be known here."

"Your medallion and ring are hard not to see."

Gabrielle stood up and offered her hand to the villager as she said sheepishly, "Wearing them is second nature to me. I forgot they could betray my identity."

Gustan accepted Gabrielle's hand and rose to his feet. "You are most gracious, your Majesty."

Gabrielle turned to Callan. "How can I not be when given such hospitality."

Callan found his tongue. "I'm sorry if I…"

"You owe me no apology. You were generous with your praise."

"I spoke the truth." Callan exclaimed boldly. Indicative of his emerging courage he raised a steady gaze to the Sovereign. "Conqueror, I say the Queen is a fine bard."

Xena smile. "I've always thought so." Xena noted the silence that had overtaken the room. They had been heard. "Excuse me." She stepped to the front of the room. The patrons remained still, their expressions ranged from fear to curiosity. Xena sensed no malice. "Good evening. It seems as if the secret my companion and I had hoped to keep has slipped through our hands. As a Greek citizen who knows the goodness of its people, I ask a favor of all of you. For the sake of the safety of our Queen, it would be best if when you go to your homes tonight you speak only of the bard and the warrior that loves her and is sworn to protect her."

A man stood up. "Warrior!"

Xena acknowledged him warmly. "Yes?"

"Might it be possible for the bard to give a second performance tomorrow night?"

Looking across the room to the bard, Xena deferred to her partner. Gabrielle answered, "I'd like that."

"It seems there shall be another night of storytelling." The warrior conveyed an uncommon casualness. "Invite your friends. And when the Queen's Guard arrives you may tell those same friends how you knew that the Queen had been their bard." Xena wore a whimsical smile that many in the crowd immediately reflected. With the tension in the room eased, she returned to Gabrielle.


Later in the evening the Royals walked to their room. Xena listened as Gabrielle recounted a conversation she shared with one of the village shopkeepers. Xena could not recall ever seeing Gabrielle in brighter spirits. It took little time after the revelation of their identities for the villagers to continue their evening as if nothing extraordinary had occurred. A few of the more outgoing villagers found reason to share a word with them. The mood was such that Xena felt a camaraderie similar to that which she had once shared with the people of Amphipolis, prior to Cortese.

* * *

Xena woke alone in bed. She scanned the room. She watched Gabrielle standing by the window, peering out into the night through a slightly opened shutter. The strong winds could be heard over the rooftop. Snow, carried on the wind penetrated their safe haven. Gabrielle closed the shutter and walked to the fireplace sitting down upon the scattered furs. Her movements conveyed a subdued spirit.

Wrapping a blanket around her, Xena slip out of bed. Gabrielle shifted her gaze to Xena, who paused before her and asked, "Couldn't sleep?"

"The storm seems to be getting worse."

In their shared silence, Xena listened to the whistling winds. "You're worried."

"Stephen and my Guard…"

Xena sat beside her partner. "They're seasoned soldiers and well provisioned for this weather. Their route, like ours, has plenty of caves for them to wait the storm out."

"You think they'll be all right?"

"I'm sure of it. The only thing that will come from the storm in addition to the fresh carpet of snow is the prospect that we'll have a couple more days to ourselves. As much as I don't wish our men the weather, I have to admit I like the idea of having you all to myself."

"Do you?"

"Oh, yes." Xena smiled.

"You haven't gotten bored with me?"

Xena looked around the room. Her mien shifted to tender introspection. "When I was a little girl, Lyceus and I spent all of our time together. My mother was busy with the inn and Toris ignored us and played with the other village boys. There was never a moment that Lyceus and I were bored. There was always a new path to explore, a swimming hole to splash in, and when we grew tired of our ramblings we would just sit together. We shared our wonder of the life around us.

"I took our time together for granted. I assumed we would always have each other. That even when we grew older we would live nearby one another and that I could go to him and spend time, sharing the same simple joys of having in him not only a brother but also a friend.

"When he died… I couldn't imagine ever having someone in my life who would be that kind of friend to me." Xena paused and looked to Gabrielle. "Do you remember those first moons when you served me?"

Gabrielle nodded.

"I looked forward to seeing you every morning and sharing our few words. The pleasure of it was far more than you might think. Do you know what made me want you in my life, what led me to trust you and hope that you might give me a little of what I had lost?"

The question of why Xena chose her had never been answered. Gabrielle's hushed voice did not betray her rising anticipation. "No."

"Remember the day you asked me what brought me happiness and encouraged me to go out on a hunt?"

"Yes, I do."

"I feared you might be with my enemies and that the hunt was a ruse meant to lead me outside the walls of Corinth to my death. I confessed to Jared my suspicions only as the day drew to a close and we returned to the palace. I knew on that day that my life was forever changed. I felt… happy and I wanted to share my modest happiness with you. So, I invited you to share a meal with me and made my long withheld request that you be my bard."

The memory of that evening was dear to Gabrielle. She confessed, "It was a wonderful night for me too."

Xena sobered. "It was only two days later that I came back from field drills to learn that you had fallen ill. I lost Lyceus. I had just begun to see in you… the Gods be damned I wasn't going to lose you, too."

Gabrielle recalled those early days in Corinth, how keeping her safely within the royal residence the Conqueror had personally nursed her, a mere slave. "I knew I loved you the first time you spoke my name. I felt… at that moment I believed without reservation that you saw in me more than a slave. Your touch had been so gentle. Still, I didn't know how to be with you. I had known only violence. I never could have imagined the tenderness you gave me."

"I never felt more unworthy than I did the moment you pulled away from me." Xena glanced away, her face tense, as she recalled Gabrielle's rejection. She continued to speak in a dull cadence. "Though I did not approach you as my slave, having a slave deny me, her Sovereign, knowing that I could break you in half or worse." Xena returned her gaze to Gabrielle. "I had tried to show my better self to you. I was not good enough. I had proof of how sorry a human being I had become."

"Xena…" Gabrielle's voice carried her heartbreak.

"Gabrielle, what else could I believe? I know who I am. I know the atrocities I will ultimately be held accountable for."

"Tell me you do not see such judgment in me." Gabrielle implored.

"No." Xena offered a wistful smile. "Even when you disagree with me, I only see your wish to be with me in Elysia."

Consoled, Gabrielle now sought out her partner's touch. She went to Xena's welcoming arms. "In the meantime we share Elysia here on earth."

* * *

Two uneventful days with irregular snows had passed. As their day near close, the Royals lay in bed, enjoying the comfort of one another's company.

Gabrielle's thoughts dwelled upon those in route to Civello. She raised herself up, sitting beside her partner. "Xena, am I being foolish to be worried about my men?"

"No, I thought they would have been here by now," said Xena as she shifted her body so to rest her back against the bed's headboard.

"Maybe we should go look for them."

"I'd rather not see you out in the cold more than you have to be. Dark comes quickly and this has never been a good time of year for you."

"Xena, I'm feeling fine." Gabrielle would not be coddled. She was resolute. "This is a healthy place. I've seen nothing more than a few sniffles."

Xena fell silent. Gabrielle's thoughts drifted to their first shared Solstice as Sovereign and Queen. Gabrielle, terribly ill, neared death. She would never forget Xena's fear for her. She understood Xena's silence was a reflection of that fear in tension with the warrior's promise never to leave Gabrielle in a place contrary to her wishes. "Would you search for them without me?"

"I like none of my choices. Do nothing. Go alone. Take you with me."

"If I choose for you?"

"You have already told me what you want me to do."

Gabrielle could see the effort Xena made not to decree a plan, but instead to seek a mutual decision. She loved Xena for treating her as an equal, for not disappointing her in the face of what was to the warrior an unacceptable request. She decided to grant her partner relief. "I can stay here. This is a safe place."

"There is no safe place," said Xena with a hint of bitterness.

"I disagree." Gabrielle rested against Xena. Silence ensued.

Gabrielle patience was rewarded when Xena spoke softly in her ear. "You go nowhere without your staff."

Gabrielle wore an unseen smile. "And my boot dagger, I promise."

* * *

Having woken alone, Xena dressed and walked down the inn stairs to the dining hall. A number of patrons sat dispersed among the many tables and benches. Gabrielle sat alone at a table near the kitchen entrance, a tray placed before her. Xena approached.

Gabrielle turned her head, smiling upon seeing the warrior. "I was going to bring you breakfast."

Xena straddled the bench and sat facing the bard. "No need now." She reached for a bread roll.

"Roco is bringing some meats." Gabrielle took possession of a chuck of cheese and offered it to her partner.

Xena took the morsel between her teeth. She smiled, chewing the tangy feta. "I need to get an early start."

"How far do you plan to go?"

"With the limited daylight this time of year, I can only afford to travel to mid-day."

"Come back to me," said Gabrielle as she placed her hand gently on Xena's thigh.

"Yes, your Majesty." Xena playfully bowed her head.

Gabrielle raised her hand to Xena's cheek and tenderly guided her partner to meet her eyes. "No, Xena. Come back to me, Gabrielle of Poteidaia."

Xena sobered as she was unexpectedly struck with a fearful thought, one that found purchase in the notable deepening of intimacy in their relationship as they traveled alone. A thought which she voiced uncensored, "Will you welcome Xena of Amphilpolis or the Conqueror?"

"I will welcome you, completely."

Xena offered a promise meant to reassure and to lesson the tension in her own breast. "I will not go far or be long."

"Promise?"

Xena leaned forward and kissed Gabrielle. "Promise."

Roco entered carrying a plate. "What is this! Warrior, take care. I need no jealous rivals in my inn. Many a fellow fell in love with your bard last night."

Gabrielle blushed and rested her forehead against Xena's shoulder. Xena whispered in Gabrielle's ear. "You know, it's true. And, that was before they knew you were their Queen." Gabrielle shook her head. Xena laughed heartedly and turned her attention to the innkeeper. "It does not matter, Roco. What counts is who the bard loves."

Roco placed the plate he held on the table. "Then you haven no worries. A blind man can see her heart is yours." It was now Xena who became flushed. "Ho! The warrior is blushing," teased Roco.

Xena altered her expression to a stern mien.

Gabrielle pulled free. She took note of the slight pink on her partner's cheeks. "Roco, you are fearless."

"No, Gabrielle. My friend here showed her true colors to me a long time ago. My eyes do not see the Conqueror so many fear."

"I am feared for good reason," growled Xena.

"Try to intimidate someone who cares, Xena. Yer wasting your breath with me."

"I'm done being abused." Xena stood up.

Roco winked at Gabrielle. "You know I always wanted to be a bard. Maybe I'll tell Gabrielle here some stories and she can measure my talent."

"Don't listen to any more of Roco lies," said Xena irritably.

"I am an honest man!" Roco brightly defended his honor.

Xena took possession of a slice of bread and laid a generous helping of cheese and roast upon it. She then grabbed two apples with her free hand. "This will do until I return."

"I love you." Gabrielle raised a hand to Xena's arm.

"Sweet," observed Roco wearing a wide grin.

"Shut up!" snapped the warrior, her dignity unaccustomed to the bald public ribbing.

"Too sweet!" The unrepentant innkeeper began to laugh.

"By the Gods…" Xena walked away.

Gabrielle stood up. "My Lord." Her worried voice carried across the room.

The warrior paused and looked back. Seeing Gabrielle's obvious concern, she retraced her steps until she stood before her partner. She spoke intimately. "I love you." She then turned a severe gaze to Roco and raised her voice. "And I don't give a damn who knows it!"

Waiting to once again have Xena's attention, a smiling Gabrielle did not hide her pleasure. "You are such a romantic."

"Aaargh!" Xena turned and walked away with Roco's guffaw resounding in her ear.

Gabrielle crossed her arms as she faced Roco, giving him a chastising look. "That was not nice."

"You'll get no apology from me. From the day I met my Trina, I've been waiting to give your fearsome warrior a dose of her own medicine."

Gabrielle relaxed her stance. "You knew Xena then?"

"If it weren't for Xena I would have never proposed to my wife and come to live here and have a son."

"Tell me the story." Gabrielle eagerly returned to her seat.

Roco sat down. "I was a soldier in her renegade army. This was before Cirra." Roco paused, his demeanor quickly altered, as if jolted far from the familiar. He was uncharacteristically grave as he cautiously asked. "You know of Cirra?"

Gabrielle nodded.

"After Caesar… and before the horror of Cirra changed Xena's path to the greater good, she took her first step to becoming a noble Sovereign. So, I'm talking about a harder Xena with a heart colder than ice. Her men would swear that not one drop of humanity flowed through her veins. She surrounded herself with three types of people. Soldiers who would fight beside her, slaves that would do her bidding and …"

"It's all right, Roco. I know who she was."

"The third were those she used. Some she paid with coin. Some with favors." Roco cleared his throat. "She was unsentimental about love. No man or woman had a chance to mean anything to her. Being the way she was she laughed at anyone who showed anything more than a passing fancy for their bedmate.

"Xena took four of us to scout ahead of her army. We came upon what seemed from afar to be a prosperous village. Before riding in we dressed ourselves as peasants and stored our weapons out of sight. I set my eyes on Trina. She was the most beautiful woman I'd ever seen. Her Pa and older brothers were smiths. She, her Ma and younger sister cared for a few milk cows and some sheep. I met her at the village well. When one of our men reported that the inn had no rooms she was kind enough to invite all of us to dine with her family and sleep in their barn.

"Their house was modest in size so we ate outside on the porch. Xena was not blind to Trina's beauty. By rule Trina was hers to seduce. None of her men would have thought to interfere.

"Xena sees people. She knows how they think and no matter how cold her own heart she could always see inside the hearts of others. She saw mine and she saw Trina's. We stayed five days making ourselves useful helping Trina's family and learning more about the village.

"When it came to take our leave I did no more than wish Trina well. I had not taken her hand or stolen a kiss. I wanted to but I knew we would come back and take everything from her, and her family and friends. I had no right to hurt her more by having her think good of me.

"We rode back the way we came and met the rest of the men. We shared what we learned with Xena's lieutenants. The village was indeed prosperous. We would have a good day in the taking of their valuables and selling their youngest and most beautiful as slaves.

"Xena came to me the night before we were going to attack. She knelt on one knee beside me. She said I had been quiet, too quiet, and she wanted to know why. She didn't fool me. She knew. She always knows."

Gabrielle did not argue with Roco though her life proved him wrong. Xena could not see completely into the hearts and souls of others. Prior to Tracate's re-entrance into her life, Gabrielle had succeeded in keeping certain truths from Xena. Even now, Gabrielle continued to maintain Xena at a distance. If Gabrielle had her way, Xena would never have intimate knowledge of Gabrielle's blackest thoughts and feelings. "What did you tell her?"

"The truth. I never lied to her. I learned early in my days with Xena that if she asked a direct question you gave an honest answer. To do anything less… well, you must know she has no tolerance for deceptions."

"I do. So, you told her how you felt?"

Roco grasped his hands together. "I asked her permission not to ride the next day. I would forfeit my share of the take. She wanted to know why. I said I wouldn't be able to face Trina or her family."

"What did she do?"

"Nothing, really. She didn't say a word. Just stood up and walked away. I took it as a refusal. I counted myself lucky not to be dead. She didn't suffer fools and at that moment I was sure she thought me worthless to her.

"The next morning we rode out. She motioned me to ride by her side. I was now sure I had lost her trust. She always kept her eye on the men she thought might be a threat to her. The army lined up at the top of a hill that overlooked the village. We just stood there with our mounts. The foot soldiers held their swords clearly in sight. The villagers stopped in their tracks and then scurried about like frightened rabbits. At the time Xena rode a black stallion. My mount was a rust gelding with a clean white patch on his chest. They were easy to recognize from a distance. Trina walked out of her Pa's house to the well and just stood looking out to us. Her sister tried to coax her to safety, but she pushed the younger girl away. My heart was breaking. By the Gods I betrayed her trust. And then…" Roco took a breath in an attempt to calm his surging emotions. "Xena did the damnedest thing. She told me to follow her ahead. When our horses were far from ear shot of the other men, she stopped her mount and said, 'Do you think you could love her?' I hadn't a word for her so I just nodded. After a moment she said, 'Then go to her and lift up your sword only to protect her from the likes of me.' I was dumbfounded and said nothing. 'Promise me, Roco!' she said. So, I gave her my vow and that was the end of it. I rode down to Trina and Xena rode her army away to pilfer another village."

The two companions sat in silence, deep in their own thoughts. Gabrielle was the first to speak. "You're right, Roco. You saw a glimpse of my Lord on that day. The woman who sent you to Trina is the woman I fell in love with."
* * *

Gabrielle walked to the village silversmith's small shop. She recalled seeing him in the tavern during her storytelling. The craftsman immediately recognized his Queen. "Your Maj…"

Gabrielle placed two fingers to her lips.

Obviously understanding, the distinguished looking man, who reminded Gabrielle of Jared, held his eyes steady upon her. "Bard, what can I do for you?"

Gabrielle smiled, relishing her new given identity. "Do you take commissions?"

"I do."

She pulled her medallion clear from her blouse. "Here…"


* * *

Gabrielle spent half the morning meeting and commiserating with the village shopkeepers and tradesmen. Surrounded by a breathtaking landscape, she longed to explore beyond the village perimeter. She entered the stables intent on grooming Spirit. Spirit butted his head against her. The stallion seemed as restless as she felt. "Doesn't seem fair, does it boy?" Spirit stamped the ground with a front hoof, seemingly in agreement. Gabrielle made a decision that would please them both. "What say you to a ride?"

Gabrielle rode the countryside, taking a well-traveled path. From a distance she saw a young boy on foot. She rode toward him. Upon reaching the boy she offered a warm greeting. "Good morning."

The young boy was distracted. "Morning… Miss, are you going by way of town?"

"I'm just out for a ride. I plan to return to the inn in a candlemark or so. Why do you ask?"

"My Pa sent me for the healer."

"Is he sick?"

"My Ma is having a baby. My Pa… he was awfully worried."

"How far is your homestead?"

"I've been walking a half candlemark."

Gabrielle reached out. "Take my hand."

"You taking me to town?" asked the boy hopefully.

"No. We're going back to your homestead."

He stepped back. "I can't Miss. It's my Ma…"

"I'm a healer," said Gabrielle reassuringly. "I know how to help her."

"But my Pa said…"

"I swear to you I can help your mother. Please, show me the way. We don't have the time to go to town and back. I won't disappoint you."

"You don't look like a healer."

"I never travel without my kit. If I show it to you, will you believe me?"

The boy looked back toward the direction he came. He turned anew to Gabrielle with a determined look on his face. "I believe you."

"Good." Gabrielle sighed in relief. "Now, take my hand. We're riding to your Ma and Pa together."

The boy did as told. He settled his body behind Gabrielle.

She took his hand and guided his arm around her waist. "What's your name?"

"Adam."

"My name is Gabrielle."

"Like the Queen's?"

Gabrielle smiled. "Yes, like the Queen's." She placed her hand over the boy's. "Now, Adam, hold on tight to me." She felt his strong arm across her waist as Spirit shifted from his stance to a walk and then to a canter.

* * *

Reaching the modest homestead, Gabrielle offered Adam her hand, helping him dismount. She then quickly dismounted, strapped Spirit's reins to a hitching post, retrieved her saddlebag and walked behind the boy as he entered his home.

Adam called out for his father. Gabrielle waited with him in the cabin's main room.

"Adam. Boy, you've made good time," said the boy's father has he entered from an adjoining room. The man was visibly surprised to see Gabrielle. He directed his question to her. "Who are you?"

"I met Adam on the road. He told me about your wife. I'm a healer…"

Impatiently, the man interrupted her. "You don't look old enough to be birthing babies, let alone knowing how to guide them into the world."

"I haven't had a child, but I've been mentored by the best mid-wife in the east and I've brought my share of babies into the world."

His suspicion remained. "Have you?" Both turn their gazes toward the bedroom as they hear a woman's cry of pain.

"Please let me help your wife. In the mean time you can send your son to town. He can ride my horse."

Adam's father walked to the cabin entrance and stepped out to the porch. "That don't look like a healer's mount."

"He was a gift," said Gabrielle, feeling her genuine pride in Spirit soar.

"From someone you cared for?"

"Yes."

"Birthing a baby?"

"Mending a sword wound."

The man turned to his son. "Adam."

"Yes, Pa," said the boy as he went to his father.

"Take the healer's horse to the barn and give him oats and water."

Adam smiled, as there was no apparent disapproval of his decision to bring Gabrielle to the homestead. His father gave him a loving pat on the shoulder as Adam walked out the door. "He's a good boy. We've wanted to give him a little brother or sister for many years now. My Lista has had two miscarriages."

"I'm sorry."

"We're so close…"

"If she's at the end of her term there is no reason to believe that the baby isn't well."

He took a calming breath. "Come with me and I'll introduce you."

* * *

Xena returned to the village. Roco called to her as she reached the stairs. Xena paused, then walked to meet the approaching innkeeper. Sensing the proprietor's anxiety she asked, "What is it, Roco?"

"Gabrielle took her stallion for a ride. She has not returned."

"How long has it been?"

"Four candlemarks, maybe more."

Xena closed her eyes and focused. She felt Gabrielle's vital life essence undisturbed. "What is there to the west?"

Roco was visibly startled by the exact nature of her query. "To the west? There is a road. It goes to the backcountry. There's farms scattered about. Little else."

"Do me a favor." She offered him her waterskin. "Fill this with hot tea and give me another with wine and wrap some bread and cheese. I'll be in the barn saddling my horse."


Xena road Argo hard. She felt a surge of elation pulse through her connection with Gabrielle. She voiced her thoughts. "Love, this better be good."

Reaching a homestead Xena dismounted Argo and walked the grounds, her keen eyes surveyed and assessed all that she saw. Seeing no sign of Gabrielle or Spirit she carefully opened the barn door. The stallion stood unharmed. She guided Argo to the cabin, hitched his reins to a post and then walked up the porch stairs and knocked on the door. A man roughly thirty summers old opened the door. She noted that he was weaponless and had well worn hands. She deduced that he tilled the soil for a living.

"Yes?" asked the man.

"I'm looking for the bard that owns the white stallion in your barn."

The man stepped back and turned to Gabrielle who was cradling a baby in her arms. "Bard? I thought you were a healer?"

Xena stepped in. "She's that too." She was enchanted and relieved at the sight of her partner. "Hello."

Gabrielle smiled. "I thought you might come looking for me."

Xena peered into the swaddled baby. "Who is this?"

"Tansia."

"Well, well, Tansia, you are a pretty little girl." The baby fussed. "Ah, she may be hungry."

"I think you're right. I'll take her to her mother."

Xena watched Gabrielle, feeling a wave of contentment course through her. She turned to the man. "Congratulations."

He beamed. "Thank you. I thank the Gods for your friend."

"Gabrielle is a talented young woman."

"Gabrielle…" The man looked back toward the bedroom. "That's her name?"

"Yes, Pa. She told me before we rode here," said Adam.

Xena now saw that there was a young boy standing near the hearth fire.

The boy's father's mien changed as he shifted his gaze from his son back to Xena. Recognition struck. "No, she can't be… that would mean you are…"

Xena offered him her hand. "Xena of Amphipolis."

"Conqueror," said the man with wonder.

Xena heard the boy repeat his father's declaration in an awed whisper. "Today I prefer if you call me by my given name."

"I am Bursten. There be my son, Adam. Welcome to my home." He grasped Xena's arm in greeting.

Xena offered him an open smile, one rarely shared with strangers. "I have a wineskin. What say we toast your family, Bursten?"

"I would be honored."

"Good. Tell my Queen I'll be right back." Xena exited through the front door.

Bursten entered the bedroom. His wife was nursing their hungry baby. Tired, her gaze traveled to her husband. Gabrielle looked over his shoulder. "Where is…"

"Xena went to get a wineskin so we can drink a toast to our new girl."

"Xena…" Stunned, his wife turned toward the healer.

"Yes, wife. We have had the honor of having our daughter brought into the world by Gabrielle, Queen of Greece."

Lista turned to her Queen. "You said nothing."

Gabrielle smiled warmly. "We were both a little busy. Anyway, when I'm a healer or a bard, I'm not the Queen."

Bursten stepped closer. "With all due respect, your Majesty, but by your actions today you have proven yourself to be nothing less than a queen worthy of our admiration."

"Thank you, Bursten." Gabrielle heard the front door open. "If you excuse me, I need to give my Lord a proper welcome."

Gabrielle entered the main room. Without missing a step she went to and embraced Xena. Feeling the warrior's strong arms enfold her Gabrielle sighed. "I love you."

Xena placed her lips near Gabrielle's ear and softly said, "You gave me a bit of a scare, my bard."

"I'm sorry."

"Only a bit. I could feel you were well and I swear I felt your happiness the moment the baby was born."

"I wouldn't be surprised." Gabrielle released her partner and stepped back. "How was your day?"

"Good."

"Did you see my Guard?"

"I did. They were below the ridge. We exchanged messages with arrows. Stephen wrote that they are well, though looking forward to proper shelter. From what I can tell the eastern pass is open. They should join us in two more days."

Gabrielle renewed her embrace. "Two more days with you alone. It's a hard life."

"For you, yes. Bard and healer, you are earning your living." Xena kissed the top of Gabrielle's head. "I, on the other hand, have been quite lazy."

* * *

The Royals rode their steeds back to the inn under the light of the moon, which shone brightly in the cloudless sky. Xena could feel through their bond Gabrielle's lingering joy. She relished the easy day and once again indulged the dream of sharing such a simple life with her partner. Xena's reverie was interrupted by Gabrielle's gentle voice. "Where were you?"

Xena turned to her. "Just thinking… It was a good day."

"Yes, it was."

Xena returned her gaze to the road. "Solstice is only a few days away. What say you to staying at the inn through the holiday?"

"I know our Guard will appreciate the rest."

"And you? What will make you happy?"

Gabrielle smiled. "My Lord, I've never been happier. I want for nothing."

"We stay then?"

"Yes."

"I'll tell Roco."

Gabrielle's thoughts lay upon a practical concern. "The inn isn't large enough, even doubling up I doubt he'll have enough room for all the men."

"They can draw lots. They'll enjoy the game of it," said Xena on a casual note.

"Not if they are the poor souls left out in the cold." Here was a long-standing difference between the two women. Gabrielle always strove to offer her Guard comfort in travel, while Xena considered comfort an unnecessary luxury. Gabrielle's eye's brightened as alternative accommodations came to mind. "I have another idea. Some of the villagers might have spare rooms. I'm sure they'd welcome the chance to put some extra coin in their pockets."

"I don't know…" Xena's bias toward caution stirred. "These people don't trust outside authority."

"They've welcomed us and kept our secret," argued Gabrielle gently.

"True." Xena had been the one to attest to Civello's safety. She would not be a hypocrite and grant the Royal Guard less than she allowed for herself. "Roco can pass the word. We'll see if there are any takers. If not, the men will do fine in the stables."

"I wager all of them will have a warm bed on Solstice eve," said Gabrielle decidedly.

"No wager, my bard. I know your skills in persuasion too well to bet against you."

"If I swear not to solicit rooms?"

Xena cast a knowing glance at her partner. "Tell me, what tale of charity will you tell in the inn to move the villagers to open their homes to our men?"

Gabrielle laughed. "I didn't think of that. It would be worth the try."

"I wager on your success, never your failure."

"Do you believe in me so?"

"Must you ask?" said Xena with unexpected vehemence.

Gabrielle took measure of the warrior's passionate response, seeking an honest reply. "No, though I admit I sometimes still find your faith in me hard to accept."

Xena halted Argo. "Gabrielle, the day I lose my faith in you is the day I lose my faith in life itself."

Gabrielle reined Spirit. From their bond she felt a jolt of anxiety. Taken unawares, she spoke Xena's name in a hush.

The warrior looked down to her hands, entwined in Argo's reins they rested motionless on her saddle horn. Contradicting Xena's quietude, Gabrielle felt a second tremor of anxiety. Proof once again of her heightened sensitivity to Xena's emotions. She guided Spirit around to Argo's side so that she faced her partner. She reached out and placed her hand over Xena's. "My Lord?"

Xena swallowed, obviously trying to master her internal tumult. Her posture remained unchanged. "Damn…" Her curse was self-directed. "Don't know what's wrong with me."

"I feel what you feel." To Gabrielle's disappointment her consolatory gesture seemed only to cause Xena to further withdraw. Silence settled between them. Gabrielle exercised her greatest patience.

"Sorry…" said the warrior hoarsely.

"Don't be." Gabrielle tightened her grip. She felt her partner's unnerving distress ebb, uncertain if she felt sorrow or fear, or a combination of the two.

Xena raised her head shyly meeting Gabrielle's gaze. "We should keep moving."

Gabrielle searched the warrior's hesitant eyes. "I have a request."

Xena nodded silently.

"I want a quiet night in our room tonight, sharing a roast dinner and some fine wine. And, I want to give you my gentlest touch."

Xena raised Gabrielle's hand to her lips and kissed it. "As you wish, my bard."

* * *

Xena held Gabrielle as the bard slept. They had shared all that Gabrielle had desired: a quiet dinner, fine wine and tender lovemaking. Xena felt a resurgence of the unexpected vulnerability that had taken hold of her the previous day and as a result a storm raged within her soul.

The ever-increasing depth of their bond was disconcerting. As much as Xena longed for union, her need frightened her. She wondered if the taunt unrelenting bond was unique to place and time. Whether by returning to Corinth, draped once again with the mantle of Sovereign and Queen they would forfeit what was an unfolding, seemingly fathomless intimacy. She debated whether to try to reassert her autonomy. As she did she wondered whether Gabrielle would not only feel the change but also trace its source to Xena's doubts.

Answers to a number of her questions would come with time. For now, she was certain of one fact. Gabrielle was weathering the state of their relationship far better than she was. Resting her gaze upon her partner, Xena was humbled. Gabrielle was experiencing a rare, undisturbed peace. Xena did not want to disrupt her partner's priceless tranquility. She resolved to set her reservations aside. This moment in their lives was too singular, too precious not to relish. What the Fates decree could not be changed by her worry.

The following days passed without incident. Gabrielle entertained villagers and travelers with her tales, taking particular pleasure in knowing that to many in the audience she was simply an itinerate bard seeking to earn her room and board at Roco's inn.

Xena and Roco took advantage of the improved weather spending the daylight candlemarks checking traps and seeking out the always-illusive stags within the mountainous region. As the days passed, what to Gabrielle was Xena's inexplicit gravity slipped away, replaced with a bright and mischievous disposition that caused the bard to tread carefully, though joyfully, beside her partner.

Gabrielle sat at one of the inn tables writing while in the kitchen Xena helped Roco butcher a doe that was the unfortunate victim of Xena's keen aim of a bow.

"Innkeeper! Have you food and spirits for a weary lot?"

Gabrielle smiled upon hearing the familiar, boisterous voice. Glancing from her parchment she saw her dear brother. "Stephen!" Gabrielle rose to her feet and ran to him, garnering a hearty embrace upon her arrival.

"Whoa! This is a fine reception," exclaimed the Major.

Roco and Xena entered the main room. At the same moment Stephen and Gabrielle found themselves surrounded by the Queen's Guard. They included Samuel, Trevor, Alem, Sentas and Tavis. Keeping her head resting against Stephen, Gabrielle surveyed her brothers. "Are you all well?"

"As well as can be sleeping sandwiched between Sam and Sentas," said Tavis. "What a man will do to stay warm." The Guardsman shrugged with a decidedly distasteful look upon his face that earned everyone's laughter.

"We should be angry with you," said Stephen. "Running off with the Conqueror. Leaving us to worry."

"Oh no you don't!" Gabrielle said happily as she took a step back. "My Lord told me you knew her intentions."

"I wager you did not put up a struggle."

Gabrielle went to Xena, wrapping her arm around the Sovereign's waist. "Do you blame me?"

"Gabrielle, we cannot answer that question. To say no might be misinterpreted as a disrespectful reflection of the nature of our regard for our Liege and to say yes could very well be mistaken as a criticism of your judgment."

Xena enjoyed the exchange. She saw in Roco an obvious bewilderment. "What is it, man?" she asked softly yet, directly.

"Huh? Nothing…" After a brief pause, Roco found his wits. "These be the men you been waiting on?"

Stephen answered. "There is a score of us. And with the Conqueror's permission we would like to settle our horses."

"The stables are behind the inn. Roco has five rooms for you here and we have arranged five more among the villagers. You will double up. The villagers are good people but there will be no dereliction of your security protocol."

"Yes, my Liege."

Alem stepped forward. "Gabrielle, can we get a story tonight. I'm tired of listening to Trevor and Sam's singing."

"But, I've missed their songs," said Gabrielle as she suppressed her urge to smile.

"Ha!" shouted Trevor triumphantly.

"By the gods," lamented Alem.

Gabrielle laugher owned the room. "Alem, you will have your story. The Guardsman smiled broadly, surveying his fellows with undisguised pride.

"Come on, men." Stephen directed. "The sooner we unpack the sooner we'll have our midday meal."

"Roco, will you ready food for my brothers?" asked Gabrielle.

"Your…" Again, the innkeeper bafflement remained undisguised. "Yes, of course. I'll get to it." Roco exited to the kitchen as the Guardsmen followed the Major out of the inn.

Xena chuckled as her gaze traced the innkeeper's departure. "Roco is a confused man."

"But why?" asked Gabrielle truly surprised by the Roco's lost composure.

"Have you no idea how foreign your brother's playfulness is compared to the discipline I demanded during Roco's days with me?"

"We are not at war. Anyway, they always speak with the greatest respect. Even Stephen will not call you by your given name in front of the other men."

"And the way they speak to you, their Queen?"

"I have always been their sister first and that will never change."

"The warlord Roco knew me to be would not have tolerated any informality toward her lover let alone her consort."

Gabrielle set aside Xena's allusion to past lovers. "You enjoy it. I know you do."

"You'll have no argument from me." The warrior embraced Gabrielle lovingly.

Upon separation, Gabrielle looked pensively up to Xena. "Why did you change?"

Xena caressed Gabrielle's cheek. "Gabrielle, without a moment's thought those men will give up their lives to save yours. They will do so not because you are their Queen, but because you are their beloved sister. They hold such a love for you that they show it without embarrassment. Their love keeps you safe. It also makes them stronger because they share one woman in their lives - you. I share you with them without jealously because they are an asset in keeping my promise to never let harm come to you."

Gabrielle placed her hand over Xena's heart. "They love you, too."

"I know. That I know is a secret better kept between us."

"But, why?"

"I cannot give you a satisfactory answer. My instincts tell me to keep my men at a distance. I trust my instincts."

"Maybe your instincts are too grounded in the past."

"I have seen much change in my life. And yet, with all the change I've seen human nature remains constant. We all have the capacity to do one another harm. Love has the power to keep us to virtuous motives. Love can distill, but cannot completely purify our souls. As a result, with few exceptions such as you, Jared and Stephen, I remain careful."

"Very well." Knowing how difficult it was for Xena to trust, Gabrielle would not argue further. She would however, state a truth with pointed affection. "But love, please remember that you can count on our men just as much as I do. They will not disappoint you."

Xena kissed Gabrielle lightly. "I should get back to helping Roco. The men will have venison steaks."

Gabrielle was not to be separated from her partner. "Let's go. I'll help with preparing the vegetables."

"I say the men will bypass the meat for steamed squash," said Xena drolly. She laughed as she felt Gabrielle's quick slap upon her backside.

* * *

Solstice Eve Gabrielle decided to keep her promise to visit Lista and her family. At the break of dawn, she rode with an escort of five: Stephen, Samuel, Trevor, Alem and Tavis, carrying gifts of a wool baby blanket and an exquisitely carved rattle. Upon arriving, the men commiserated with Bursten as they worked with him, completing tasks around the homestead. Gabrielle, in turn, ensured that mother and new daughter were well.

Their visit complete Gabrielle and the Guardsmen rode casually back to the village. Periodic wolf howls caused a rising skittishness in their mounts. The sounds first heard as they traveled to the homestead now seemed closer and more ominous.

"Major, them wolves are close," called out Alem.

"I say you're right," answered Stephen.

Gabrielle sought to measure the danger she sensed more from the Guardsmen's countenance than the immediate environment. "Stephen?"

"Game is sparse this time of year. Hungry enough an animal won't think twice about its safety when food is near," he answered.

The contingent continued on the narrowing path through a thick stand of trees. The travelers shared a pronounced caution as the sounds of the wolves increased in frequency and in volume. A surge of growling and wounded yelping caused the procession to pause.

Stephen stood up on his stirrups to better scan the surrounding woods. "Men, keep a close eye."

"They're fighting among themselves," Tavis observed aloud.

"I don't like it," said Alem.

"Nor I," agreed Stephen, as he sat back on his saddle. "Keep moving."

Gabrielle led with Stephen beside her. The savage brawl quieted. Within moments, a bloodied wolf leaped out of the forest in front of the horses. The wolf seemed at first disorientated, then he focused on Gabrielle's majestic stallion. It snapped at Spirit. Spirit stood up boldly on his hind legs using his forelegs to protect himself. Gabrielle pressed her legs against the steed and raised herself up on the saddle, maintaining her balance as best as she could. Gabrielle both heard and felt movement around her without comprehending what actions the others were taking on her behalf.

The wolf lunged, clawing Spirit's breast. The stricken stallion bolted to the left. Gabrielle did not fight him, honoring Spirit's fear. She crouched low in the saddle avoiding tree branches, satisfied in leaving their assailant behind. In one terrible motion, Spirit's momentum was forcefully halted. He fell pitilessly to the ground. Gabrielle was thrown from the saddle a few paces away from were Spirit laid. Unharmed, she raised herself up.

"By the Gods." To her horror she saw the cause of Spirit's fall. His right hind leg had been caught in a trap. Worse yet, the wolf had followed and now approached, its hair upraised on its back, its teeth bared, saliva dripping from its mouth.

Gabrielle's hand went instinctively to her boot dagger. Taking the hilt firmly in hand she dove forward. On her knees she placed herself between the stallion and the wolf. "Damn you!" she shouted at the wolf as angry tears fell down her cheek.

Unimpressed, the wolf held its place before her. Gabrielle's muscles tightened, readying for a new attack. The wolf paused and turned its head to the left, its ears raised attuned to the surroundings. A dagger pierced his torso. The wolf fell back, its pelt crimson with blood. A second dagger struck the wolf's neck.

Gabrielle turned to see Stephen standing beside his black stallion. Behind him riding toward them came the other Guardsmen. Without further delay Gabrielle stowed her dagger back into her boot and went to Spirit.

The stallion, in obvious pain, fought the chained trap, which was held to the ground by a deeply embedded metal stake. "Whoa boy." She struggled to grasp his head. Succeeding, she held Spirit close against her, as she attempted to calm him.

Stephen ran to them. "Gabrielle, hold him still. I'll release the trap."

Gabrielle's gaze was fixed upon Spirit's fearful eyes. She soothed him with her gentle voice. Stroking his cheek with her hand. She heard Stephen giving the Guardsmen orders. Within moments Trevor was on his knees beside her.

He gently touched her arm. "Be careful. Spirit may react badly when he's released from the trap."

He won't hurt me," said Gabrielle.

"An animal in pain will forget himself." Trevor's counsel was interrupted by Stephen's abrupt commands.

Gabrielle kept her eyes lowered to the stallion as she listened to the Major. "Hold him still! Son of a bacchae, this trap is rusted… Sam, take one side. I'll take the other… Tavis, raise his leg when I say." Footsteps in the snow followed voiceless moments. Again, Stephen voiced rose over all other sounds. "Sam… Do it!"

The creak of the opening trap was followed by Spirit's impatient thrashing. "Hold him down! Damn it!" shouted Stephen.

Gabrielle felt Trevor shift away from her as she tightened her grip upon Spirit's neck. "Stay boy, don't fight us." The stallion responded by easing his struggle. "Good boy." Gabrielle continued her efforts, not feeling the cold or wet of the snow she lay upon.

"Gabrielle," called Stephen gently.

She looked toward him. She could not see Spirit's injury from where she was. "Stephen, is he going to be all right?"

The Major met her gaze. "I need to bandage his leg. He was running so fast when he stepped in the trap… I don't know what other damage he may have done to himself. Let's see if he can stand and walk."

Gabrielle nodded.

Stephen got to his feet and walked to Gabrielle. He took Spirit's reins. "Okay, boy. Come on now…"

Gabrielle shifted away to safety as in one quick motion Spirit stood. He kept his wounded leg raised, limiting the weight it bore.

Stephen stroked Spirit's cheek reassuringly then handed the reins to his mistress. "Gabrielle, walk him,"

She did, leading Spirit gingerly. The stallion moved deliberately, neighing with each injured hoof fall. After a few steps, clearly aware of Spirit's pain, Gabrielle looked beseechingly back to Stephen.

The Major answered her silent plea. "Let's get back to the village. I want the Conqueror to take a look at him."

* * *

Xena rode Argo at full gallop driven by a relentless pulsating sorrow. The source of her sorrow was Gabrielle, conveyed through their bond. During the span of a quarter-candlemark, Xena had felt a shift from vague foreboding to sharp panic followed by anger and heartbreak. Xena surmised that Gabrielle was physically well. What she did not know was the subject of Gabrielle's emotion. Given the company that Gabrielle kept, how dear she held her brothers; Xena feared a terrible injury had befallen one of them. That Stephen was among Gabrielle's escort compounded Xena's anxiety.

From a distance she saw the mounted Guardsmen. That Gabrielle was not immediately in sight alarmed her. Meeting the contingent, Xena spied Gabrielle and Stephen on foot at the center of what she understood to be a protective configuration. Xena's gaze traveled to Spirit. His breast was crimson with blood. She reined in her anxious emotions and silently dismounted. The Guardsmen shifted their horses opening a path for the Conqueror. Xena's pace was brisk as she sought confirmation of Gabrielle's well being.

Seeing her Lord, Gabrielle dropped Spirits reins and ran to her, falling into Xena's embrace. The warrior enfolded her partner in her arms. "Hey." Gabrielle began to cry quietly. Xena reassured, "I'm here." She looked up, catching Stephen's worried gaze. She directed her question to him. "What happened?"

"A mad wolf got chased away from his pack. He attacked Spirit. Spirit tried to get away. He stepped into a trap"

Xena visually inspected the stallion. She noted the bandaged leg. "How bad is he hurt?"

Stephen's dire countenance conveyed more than his words. "The trap's teeth went deep and he was at a full gallop when it happened." He glanced to Gabrielle. "I told our Queen you would be a better judge than I."

Xena understood far more than the women in her arms that there was little hope for healing. It was neither the time nor place for Spirit's raw truth. She spoke tenderly to Gabrielle. "Let me take a look at him and then we'll go back to town."

Gabrielle nodded in response.

Reluctantly releasing Gabrielle, Xena went to assess Spirit's leg. She knelt down and began undoing the bandage. Stephen crouched beside her. She asked him. "The wolf. What happened to him?"

"He's in Tartarus."

"Did he hurt anyone other than Spirit?"

"I didn't give him the chance."

With a quick glance Xena confirmed that Gabrielle remained at a distanced. She lowered her voice so only Stephen could hear. "Make sure you clean the blade well. He was diseased."

"Could Spirit…"

"Those marks on his chest are from the wolf's claws?"

"Yes."

"Then probably not. It usually takes a bite." Having exposed Spirit's leg completely, Xena reacted to the wound. "Damn," she hissed.

"Xena, his leg…"

"I know." Xena raised her gaze to Stephen. "I'll tell Gabrielle later."


* * *

Spirit was placed in the largest stall in Roco's stables. After sending Gabrielle to their room to wash and rest, Xena privately tended to his wounds. She then groomed him, offering what little comfort she could. She saw no future for the stallion other than a quick and merciful death. Her heart broke. She would end the stallion's life, not trusting another to cause him the least pain possible.

Her affection for Spirit was bound to her love for Gabrielle. She remembered seeing the young impetuous colt and sensing that Gabrielle's gentle hand could calm him as Gabrielle calmed her. Spirit also represented a time in her life in which she lived completely removed from the demands of being Sovereign. Scupli, much like Civello gave her a taste of a life she could visit but never claim for herself. She mourned the unavoidable death of the stallion and the shattering of the idyllic days shared with Gabrielle in Civello. They would return to Corinth, the lingering joy of their respite subdued by the sorrow of their loss.

Xena set the grooming brush aside and stood before the stallion, scratching his cheek gently. Spirit was undeniably a bold and beautiful equine. Of Gabrielle's possessions, he alone earned both her affection and pride. Equal to Gabrielle's fine horsemanship, Xena also credited Spirit as the inspiration for Gabrielle's regal posture when she rode the stallion.

Xena remembered how Bursten had confessed to her, that he knew the Gods blessed anyone who owned a horse like Spirit. It was in seeing Spirit that he had reason to trust the young woman who claimed to be a healer. Despite her feelings toward the Gods, Xena had not dismissed the comment. Bursten had also offered an easy complement, granting that Xena was an excellent judge of horseflesh, as he correctly assumed that she had given Spirit to Gabrielle.

Xena's thoughts were interrupted by Gabrielle's entrance to the stable. She walked to the stall, standing on the first rung, better to see. "How is he? Will he take long to heal?" she asked hopefully.

Xena found and held Gabrielle's gaze. She meant to convey a truth that would not be breached by argument or pleading. "Gabrielle, his leg is too far gone. The tendons…"

Gabrielle struggled to maintain her composure. She glanced down to his damaged leg. "He's young. He'll heal."

Xena used all her will to steady her voice. "If he hadn't been running so fast… He can't bear weight on his leg without pain."

Gabrielle jumped down from the rung and entered the stall. Spirit turned his head to her. She welcomed him. After a few thoughtful moments she said, "Boy, you'll going out to pasture."

Xena placed a comforting hand upon her partner's shoulder. "Gabrielle, that is not his fate."

Gabrielle looked up. "What do you mean?"

"He'll be killed by the first predator that crosses paths with him."

"We'll keep him in the stables," said Gabrielle tensely.

"What kind of life would that be for him? It would be cruel."

Gabrielle shook her head as she came to understand Spirit's fate. "No."

"Gabrielle, I'll make sure he feels little pain."

"No!" she raged. "I will not let you kill him!"

Xena shifted her hand to her partner's arm. "Gabrielle, please..."

"No, Xena!" Gabrielle slapped Xena's hand aside. "You have no right. He's mine."

Xena was unmoved. "Listen to reason. Gabrielle, Spirit means a great deal to me, too. I'm thinking of what's best for him."

"If it was Argo would you kill her so easily?" asked Gabrielle scornfully. "I know you, Xena. You would do everything in your power to save Argo. You would leave nothing untried. You would exercise your infinite patience to be sure. It's been three candlemarks and you're ready with your sword. I hate this!"

"He's suffering. You're a healer. You know that sometimes the greatest gift you can give is to encourage someone to cross over."

"I have never rushed woman, man or child to Hades."

"Name his fate, Gabrielle. Do we stable him up against nature or set him free to be ripped apart by another wolf?"

"Save him as you have saved me."

"I can't. I swear I wish I could."

Silence fell between the two women. Gabrielle stepped back and then walked to the stable entrance. She paused and asked dejectedly. "Will you feed him to the dogs?"

Xena winced. She had expected Gabrielle's anger. Understanding its source did not lesson the pain it caused. "He shall have a pyre. He will wait for you in Elysia."

"You're determined to do this," asked Gabrielle sternly.

"Yes."

"Is there anything I can say or do to stop you?"

Xena looked down. After a moment she raised her gaze to Gabrielle. "Will I lose your love?"

Gabrielle saw a profound truth. Xena's fear of losing her love was rarely so nakedly revealed. Gabrielle knew she could stop Xena by the mere hint that she would withdraw her love. Never had either of them leveraged their love to forestall an act sincerely executed for the greater good, especially one rooted in mercy. Gabrielle's heart broke, as Spirit's fate was unequivocally determined in their shared silence. "I've lost my tolerance for diplomatic visits. I return to Corinth in the morning." Her voice trembled as she said, "Wait at least until I'm beyond the precinct to strike your sword."

Xena remained silent. There was nothing left to say. She watched Gabrielle leave the stable then turned her gaze back to Spirit. A lone tear fell down her cheek.

* * *

It was well past nightfall when Stephen returned to the stable. He found Xena sitting on a hay bail resting her back against a stable wall. "It's late."

"I'll keep him company tonight," responded Xena softly.

Stephen stood before the Conqueror. He saw only his friend. "Xena, Gabrielle is hurting. She will not hold this against you."

"She has never asked anything for herself. For others, yes, but not for herself."

"We both know Spirit's chance of healing are slim."

"You think there is a chance?" Xena posed uncertainly.

Stephen turned and walked to Spirit's stall, reaching out to the stallion, stroking his mane. "He has to want to get well."

Xena's voice traveled sharply across the room. "I won't break Gabrielle's heart a second time."

Stephen kept his eyes upon the magnificent steed. "We can work with him here. Gabrielle doesn't need to know."

"We?"

Stephen returned his attention to Xena. "It's your fault I know almost as much about horses as you do."

The hint of animation in their banter intensified as Xena quipped, "If you stay you'll miss the pleasure of planning your wedding with Tess."

Stephen smiled sheepishly. "It's a sacrifice I'm willing to make."

* * *

The following morning Stephen stood at the stable door watching the Queen's Guard prepare to leave. A mount with modest tack was secured for Gabrielle. She insisted that Spirit's tack be burned on the pyre with him. Gabrielle stepped out of the inn. She exchanged a few words with Samuel. Stephen chose then to enter the stable.

At the foot of the inn Gabrielle watched as Xena exited the stable with Stephen remaining a short distance from his Sovereign. Her Lord paused, standing feet firmly planted, hands held behind her back. Between them it was a familiar stance that conveyed Xena's uncertainty. To those who did not know her, the Conqueror was a stoic image. And yet to Gabrielle, Xena embodied an anxiety that she could sense without their bond. Their gazes met.

Gabrielle knew that by her decision to return to Corinth they would be separated for at least a moon's time. She walked across the courtyard to her partner. The tension permeating through Xena eased slightly. Xena walked to meet Gabrielle. Stopping short, she left three paces separating them. Gabrielle continued, breaching the distance. She embraced her Lord. Xena enfolded her partner protectively.

Gabrielle whispered. "Nothing you choose to do will ever stop me from loving you."

"I love you," said Xena hoarsely.

Gabrielle closed her eyes, memorizing the moment. She understood that her pain was not hers alone. She gently released her Lord. She raised her hand to Xena's cheek. "Cover his eyes before… I don't want him to remember you with a sword in your hands."

"Gabrielle…"

"Finish Greece's negotiations. I'll wait for you in Corinth."

"I won't make you wait long."

Gabrielle kissed Xena lightly. "I love you."

Xena walked Gabrielle back to the inn and bid her and the Queen's escort farewell. She watched until they disappeared from sight. She then entered the inn, seeking the privacy of her room. Climbing the stairs in twos, Xena felt relief wash over her. With it came a wave of exhaustion. She had slept badly in the stables.

She entered her room and sat on the bedside removing her boots. She slid back onto the bed, leaning against the headboard. Her thoughts were with Gabrielle. Her stay in Civello and her travels north would not be the same without her partner. She scanned the room, noting how bare it seemed without Gabrielle's possessions. It was then that she saw an open scroll on the desktop. Knowing that Gabrielle would not have indiscriminately left her writing to the sight of strangers, Xena jumped to her feet and impatiently crossed the room.

She picked up the scroll and read.

My Lord -

I missed you last night. I would have welcomed you if you had come to me. Know that I do not blame you. I do understand that you act with mercy, not callousness.

During our life together you have given me many gifts. I have valued Spirit as one of the greatest reflections of your love. I confess that you and he touch my heart in similar ways. His beauty, strength and noble carriage mark his magnificence and yet, I love him equally for his playful temperament and his affection given in response to my own.

When I have been troubled Spirit has been my tolerant companion, carrying me away, if only for a brief moment in time, to a place where I could be alone with my thoughts, where I could be free.

I am and will always be Gabrielle of Poteidaia first and Queen second. With Spirit by my side I felt more Queen than slave, servant or peasant. He was born to serve royalty - never did I imagine he would fulfill his destiny as my mount.

I shall wait for you. Upon your return, I ask that we not speak of our mutual loss. I will reclaim Geld who has served me well in the past. I also ask that you not try to replace Spirit. I want no more gallant stallions.

Finally, I beg your forgiveness for my harsh words. I was angry with the Fates, not you.

Travel safely. Come home to me as soon as you can.

I love you.

Gabrielle.

Xena rolled the scroll and returned to her bed. She rested with the scroll in her hand, a necessary anchor in her life.

* * *

That evening Stephen shared Solstice dinner with Xena. After their dinner concluded he reached into his belt pouch. "I have something for you. Gabrielle asked that I give you these tonight. He presented Xena with a folded parchment with the Queen's seal and a small cloth bundle tied with a simple string. He waited for Xena to take possession of the gifts before standing up and grabbing their mugs. "I'll get us fresh drinks."

Xena briefly followed Stephen's departure with her eyes before turning her attention to the parchment and bundle. She carefully broke the Queen's seal. The message was brief.

My Love,

I wanted you to have a part of me with you always.

Happy Solstice.

Gabrielle

Xena unfolded the cloth with reverence, revealing an oval silver medallion hanging on a silver chain. Engraved on the medallion was Gabrielle's seal, the combination of quill, staff and laurel, originally designed by her Guard to dress the Queen's banner. Xena set the cloth aside. She raised the medallion to her lips and kissed it. She then secured the medallion's chain around her neck. Their twin rings spoke of their union, of their promises to one another. The medallion spoke only of Gabrielle, the woman who in freedom chose to be with her.

Xena ached for her partner. She closed her eyes and focused on Gabrielle, releasing the love she felt to the invisible ether, hoping her strength of feeling would bridge the distance Gabrielle had traveled that day, reaching and consoling her partner.

* * *

Gabrielle slept soundly as Xena stood at their palace bedroom threshold. Negotiations had been far more tedious than expected. Nearly two moons had passed since they parted in Civello. Their exchange of correspondence was warm and loving. Still, Xena hesitated to reenter her life with Gabrielle.

She stepped back and crossed the main chamber of their suite to the bath. The fire was cold and thus the water tepid. She welcomed the chance to be rid of the dirt and sweat of her journey.

Washed, she donned her robe, which conveniently hung on a wall hook. Gabrielle, Xena observed, had maintained the artifacts of an uninterrupted, shared life. She took comfort in the fact.

Having toweled her hair she walked to the balcony. I gentle breeze swept through her long tresses. Soon they would be dry and she would be ready for bed. The moon was only a sliver in the sky. The stars shone bright. She heard the intermittent sounds of Guardsmen walking their rounds.

Xena lost track of time as she resettled her thoughts upon the men and women who made life in Corinth so different from the natural world she had traveled. She wished to enter a village such as Civello or Scupli, as a stranger welcomed for her skills and industry, creating a quiet life where the sword and chakrum had no reason for existence.

In such a village she would have met Gabrielle, fallen in love and known the day to day joys and sorrows that had nothing to do with the world stage. Such a dream had touched her in Civello and she was certain she saw the same dream reflected in Gabrielle's eyes as her partner told her stories and served as mid-wife.

In revisiting their brief time in Civello Xena also saw something in Gabrielle she still did not understand. Gabrielle had only to consent and they would have left Greece, bequeathing governance to Jared. Gabrielle's sense of duty kept her on the throne, a seat of authority she had reluctantly accepted. The source of Gabrielle's sense of duty was beyond Xena's well thought through logic.

Xena entered the bedroom, soundlessly approaching Gabrielle's side of the bed. She knelt on one knee, placing her hand over Gabrielle's. She whispered her partner's name. Gabrielle stirred from sleep. Xena repeated her tender call.

Gabrielle opened her eyes to Xena. "My Lord," she said in a low throaty whisper.

Xena smiled. "I'm here."

"I've missed you so."

"I love you."

Gabrielle closed her eyes. She wore a muted smile. "You will come home to me."

Xena understood Gabrielle was still hovering between sleep and wakefulness. "I have, love." She leaned forward and kissed Gabriele tenderly on the lips. She felt Gabrielle's hand touch her cheek as Gabrielle returned the kiss with rising ardency.

The kissed ended and Xena drew back slightly.

"Xena!" Gabrielle raised herself up and took her lover enthusiastically into her arms.

Gabrielle's embrace was a sweet, much needed assurance. "It is good to know that even in your dreams you love me," Xena quipped wholeheartedly.

"In my dreams. In every waking moment." Gabrielle released her. "Did you just arrive?"

"I took the time to clean-up for you. I wanted to make a good impression."

"You are and always have been beautiful to me no matter how much road dust you wear."

"That's reassuring," chuckled Xena.

Gabrielle glanced down. "My Lord…" She tentatively touched the medallion she gifted Xena for Solstice. "You wear it."

"I shall never take it off."

Gabrielle was pleased. "So, you like it?"

"Very much. I carry you with me always. If ever you doubt what you are to me … that you are not only my love," Xena took Gabrielle's ringed hand into her own, " but also my Queen, you need only to look to the medallion."

"I did not mean the medallion as my claim on you," said Gabrielle apologetically.

"Why not," Xena countered, "when I have sworn myself to you as I have done no other." Xena looked blindly away for a moment, before returning her intense gaze back to Gabrielle. "I need you to be my Queen."

"Very well, my Lord." Gabrielle kissed Xena. "Come to bed. You must be tired."

Xena disrobed, gladly accepting Gabrielle's invitation. Lying on her side she found pleasure in simply shifting wisps of hair from Gabrielle's forehead. Seeing a further invitation in Gabrielle's bright emerald eyes, Xena kissed her partner. What followed was a night of delicious lovemaking.

* * *

Hearing someone enter the Royal suite, Xena glanced out the balcony. Seeing the morning light she assumed breakfast was being served. Given that the household staff knew of her return she set a private wager that her chief cook had delivered the meal. Xena gently slipped from Gabrielle's embrace and donned her robe. She stepped out of the bedroom to the main chamber pleased to see Makia. She retied her robe, an unconscious habit, and approached the dining table. "Good morning, Makia."

The cook looked up from her task and smiled. "Good morning, Your Majesty. I hope you are well."

"Very. And you? How have these past moons treated you?"

"I have no complaints. Is the Queen still asleep?"

"Yes. I woke her upon my arrival. It was some time before we fell asleep."

"I imagine it was a pleasant homecoming for you."

"Yes, our Queen made it so."

The cook nodded in response. She stilled all motion as if thinking to speak and then returned to setting the meal. Xena stood silently and observed. She found the cook's gestures arrested. She believed there was indeed something the cook had left unsaid. "Makia, is something wrong?"

The cook looked up seemingly confused by the question. "No, Your Majesty."

"Makia…" said Xena in a low timbre, a hint of warning conveyed.

The cook took a step forward, holding herself straight with renewed confidence. "The Queen seemed worried. She did not confide in me."

Xena gentled her voice. "She speaks to you of me." There was no question, only a statement of fact. Xena could see Makia's uncertainty. The cook was well aware that there had been a time not too long in the distant past when the Conqueror would have never tolerated a servant having knowledge of her intimate life. "It's all right. It is not good for our Queen to feel alone in the world. She needs friends she can trust."

"Thank you, Your Majesty. But, I've always felt that our Queen keeps a part of herself sheltered from the light of day."

"That part of her that is mine?" probed Xena. She wondered how well the cook understood her partner, and this was a rare, non-confrontational opportunity to find out.

"She freely expresses her love for you. She always does so with great joy." Makia held Xena's gaze with obvious compassion. "I think she still fears losing your love. And, I think her fear has more to do with the harm done to her by others than with the life you have given her in Corinth."

"You are perceptive," said Xena as she offered a muted nod in agreement.

"Then she has no reason to fear the loss of your love?"

The question jolted Xena from a place of relative internal peace. "You are bold this morning, Makia."

The cook lowered her eyes. "I beg your pardon, Your Majesty."

"You know she lost Spirit?"

"Sam told me what happened. Our Queen will not speak of his injury and death."

"By my hand."

"Her Guard has been constant in their support of your decision."

"They are horsemen."

"And the Queen is a capable horsewoman."

"She has lost so much in her young life. She speaks of none of it. Not even to me."

"Do you share your losses with her?"

"Yes." Xena turned her gaze toward the bedroom threshold. "As our years together have passed I've come to accept that as much as our Queen selflessly gives of herself, there is a part of her that as you said, she keeps sheltered from the light of day."

"I'm sorry, Your Majesty."

Xena returned her attention to the cook. "Not a word of this to Gabrielle."

"No, Your Majesty."

Xena went to the table and set a mug of tea and a plate with bread, meat and soft cheese on a tray. "Let me take her breakfast. She deserves a gentle awakening."

The cook watched as the Conqueror picked up the tray and walked toward the bedroom. "Your Majesty?"

Xena looked to the cook. "Yes, Makia?"

"Gabrielle was never a slave to you, was she?"

Two thoughts entered Xena's mind. This was the first time since Gabrielle's ascendancy to the throne that they referred to Gabrielle by her given name to each other. The second was that Makia's boldness reminded her of Gabrielle upon their first true conversation in the infirmary. She found no reason to be offended by the direct, personal inquiry. She answered softly. "No, not really."

"She was a slave to others. If she wasn't to you, it was you who made the difference, not her."

Xena shook her head. "Makia, my life is not Tartarus on earth because of her. I was… I am not unselfish. In loving Gabrielle I am the most selfish beast that walks the earth."

"I was never blessed with a child," said the cook unexpectedly. "I confess I resented by barrenness. When Gabrielle came into the household I did not want to care for her. Accepting my love for her… having her love in return. I think I understand how you feel because I feel the same way."

Here was an ironic lesson. Gabrielle was a catalyst who brought people together even in the context of speaking of how Gabrielle kept herself from others. Xena understood that just as she had to come to accept Gabrielle's unwarranted love as a contradiction of all she once believed true - that she was not meant to have love, so too did Makia need to accept Gabrielle's presence as the daughter the cook believed she had been deprived of. There was nothing more to be said between them except to acknowledge the cook as a valued member of her household. "Thank you for breakfast, Makia."

"You are most welcomed, Your Majesty."


Xena rested the meal tray on a table near Gabrielle's bedside. She stood over Gabrielle observing the younger woman as she slept. Gabrielle seemed at peace. Gabrielle's peace was Xena's greatest desire. Having returned to Corinth Xena was determined to do her best to tenderly coax Gabrielle's fears to a secure, reassured niche in her partner's heart. For in her heart they lingered and would do so until Gabrielle's death. Like the scars on Gabrielle's back, so deep did Xena measure Gabrielle's heart wounds she no longer expected their complete healing, though she held fast to the hope that one day such healing would still take place.

Gabrielle stirred, reaching out toward Xena's bedside. Xena sat on the bed and whispered, "I'm here."

Gabrielle rested on her back and opened her eyes. She smiled. "Last night wasn't a dream."

Xena mirrored her partner's smile. "If it was I shared it with you." Xena gestured toward the table. "I brought a sampling of Makia's generous breakfast for us."

"She knew you were here?" asked Gabriele as she sat up against the bed headboard.

"My comings and goings have always been of interest to the household."

"I remember… Mornings not seeing you always felt incomplete. They still do."

"Our mornings…" Xena felt the sadness that accompanied her confession to Makia. "It was hard to love you from a distance. You could be so forthright with me and yet you remained a mystery. I wanted so much to understand you. I came to believe that you would reveal yourself only to the one soul who would earn your trust and love. And, I knew I could never be that soul."

Gabrielle extended her hand and cupped Xena's cheek. "You were wrong."
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